Monday, August 17, 2009

Tides

Today students learned about tides, tsunamis, and waves.

Waves are caused by the transfer of energy - in this case ocean energy caused by the wind. We talked about wave parts and how to measure waves.

We discussed tsunamis and how countries around the globe are teaching native peoples to recognize the signs of a tsunami and setting buoys to measure if a tsunami is coming. Students decided that they were glad they didn't live somewhere where the threat of a tsunami is imminent... well except if the Canary Islands fall into the sea.

Last we discussed tides and their causes. Tides are caused by the gravitational tug of the sun and moon on the big wet mass of the oceans. The moon has a larger effect on the tides because it is much closer to the earth.

We finished the day with Blue Planet Tidal Seas. We watched parts one and two to see tides in action and lifestyle of the organisms that live in tidal areas- both on the small scale from a sand bubbler crab's point of view and on a large scale. The Bay of Fundy in Canada has a tidal range from high tide to low tide of one hundred and fifty feet!
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Computer Lab Etiquette

You are in the computer lab to do work for this class. If you are not doing work, then we will have problems.

Do not pack up early. Work until the bell or until MsJ says.

SAVE OFTEN. And if you save to a key, also save it to your number. If you lose it, you will have to do it again.

If MsJ asks for your attention, stop what you are doing and listen to what she has to say.

You may watch videos about your organism through reliable websites.

You may listen to music through the computer if you have your own headphones. Rule1 MsJ cannot hear it. You get one warning. Rule2 Turn it on and listen – no million clicks and constant changing. Take both ear phones out when MsJ is talking.